My creative journey began after the passing of my husband of 50 years on April 16, 2022. I had retired early from a 25-plus-year career to care for him at home as he faced Alzheimer’s, and when he was gone, I was faced with rediscovering who I am and what brings me joy.

Encouraged by family and widowed friends not to sit at home, I embraced their advice and explored the world—and myself. I began traveling, experimenting with new art forms, and allowing inspiration to guide each day. Art quickly became my therapy and my voice.

Born and raised in Hays, Kansas, I remain deeply connected to my community. I am a member of the Hays Arts Council, A Different Mindset Association, Hays Kiwanis Club, Ellis County Historical Society, American Legion Post 173, VFW Auxiliary Post 9076, Hansen Museum in Logan, Kansas (hansenmuseum.org), Western Plains Painters in Hays (find us on Facebook), and the Society of Layerists in Multi-Media (SLMM) (slimm.org).

I am also a proud U.S. Air Force veteran with a Bachelor of General Studies (2003) and a Master of Science in Education (2011) from Fort Hays State University.

Each piece I create starts with a vision and a purpose. I do not mass-produce work; every painting or mixed-media piece reflects a moment, a feeling, or an idea that spoke to me. Writing remains another outlet, weaving words and images into my ongoing story.

Now, as I share my art at local shows and beyond, I wake up each morning excited to see where creativity will lead me next. My work celebrates resilience, discovery, and the beauty of beginning again.